South Bend Â?State of the CityÂ? comes Monday

Mayor: Both challenges and hope ahead for South Bend.

Mayor: Both challenges and hope ahead for South Bend.

February 14, 2009|By JAMIE LOO Tribune Staff Writer

SOUTH BEND -- Mayor Stephen Luecke considers these the most challenging times he has faced in his tenure as mayor because of the issues residents are faced with, locally and nationally. But he says those challenges also provide opportunities. The mayor, preparing for his annual State of the City address Monday night, said President Barack Obama's inauguration address included themes such as citizen involvement and coming together to remake the country's future, which also resonates locally. "We've been remaking South Bend," he said. From the city's industrial history, Luecke said South Bend has been transforming in a variety of ways from health care, arts and culture and now to nanotechnology with the Midwest Institute of Nanotechnology Discovery. He said MIND and Ignition Park seem to be "the grand opportunity before us." Luecke said he also will address the old and new ways for residents to become involved, such as neighborhood watches and participating in the city's budget process. The budget will be an important topic this year as the city faces shortfalls from House Enrolled Act 1001. Luecke said that by now, many residents have seen savings in their property tax bills from the tax caps. The mayor said he will reaffirm his belief that local option income tax dollars are needed along with cuts to continue providing essential city services. Luecke said he also will address public safety issues and economic development. Actively investing in economic development is crucial right now, Luecke said, to keep people at work and to lay the groundwork for new jobs. Staff writer Jamie Loo: jloo@sbtinfo.com (574) 235-6337